Rugby Sevens World Series: Antoine Dupont Shines in Madrid
Antoine Dupont continues to showcase his exceptional talent in rugby, solidifying his status as a winner irrespective of his team composition. Fresh off a recent Champions League victory, Dupont is set to compete in the final of the Rugby Sevens World Series this Sunday at the Metropolitano in Madrid. This tournament marks an important milestone for Spanish rugby and serves as the final major event before the Olympic Games in Paris.
Madrid welcomed Dupont and other international stars with open arms. The event, likened to a tennis masters format by World Rugby, featured a dynamic setup after a tour consisting of stops in global cities such as Dubai, Cape Town, Perth, and Hong Kong. The semifinal rounds, thrillingly close with each match decided by a single score, culminated on Sunday. The Spanish rugby community celebrated as both their men's and women’s teams secured spots among the world's top twelve.
Dynamic Format and International Appeal
Rugby sevens is known for its fast-paced, seven-minute halves and seven-player teams, delivering a more dynamic and unpredictable game compared to the traditional 15-player format. The shorter, high-intensity matches cater to the preferences of a younger, under-35 audience, representing 40% of attendees. According to Paula Hernández, the event’s director, this format appeals to fans who seek a more engaging and entertainment-rich experience, similar to models seen in the NBA.
Moreover, the tournament turned into a cultural event with musical activities, a fan zone, and even a beach rugby competition. Hernández emphasized that the accessibility of sevens rugby, being an Olympic sport, aids in its global growth. With over 35,000 registered players in Spain, this growth is evident. Madrid will continue hosting the event for the next two editions, cementing its legacy and future potential in international rugby.
Anticipation for Paris 2024
The excitement surrounding rugby sevens is set to reach new heights at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Unlike its modest debut in Rio and the spectator-less Tokyo edition, the discipline will unfold at the iconic Stade de France. The men’s event kicks off two days before the grand opening ceremony, which features a unique parade on the Seine. However, due to potential security concerns, President Emmanuel Macron has indicated that festivities might be relocated to Saint-Denis.
Alan Gilpin, the general director of World Rugby, expressed confidence that contingency plans will not be necessary, based on assurances from the Paris 2024 organizers. The women’s rugby sevens event will follow at the Saint-Denis venue, overlapping with the athletics events and culminating in the closing ceremonies of both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- Dupont’s participation has driven significant interest and viewership from France, drawing in tourists from various countries including the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Argentina. Despite ticket prices starting from just eight euros, the event aimed to boost the sport’s popularity in Spain rather than revenue generation.
- On Friday, the opening day served as an invitation to schools, nurturing future rugby talent in Spain. The success of this approach was evident, with over 20,000 spectators flocking to the Metropolitano over the weekend.
